Marilyn J. Anderson, 94 of Valparaiso and formerly of Kouts, passed away Monday, January 15, 2024. She was born July 8, 1929 in Normal, IL to the late Edmund and Mary (Thomas) Bechler. Marilyn loved being a farmer’s wife and used her talents as a seamstress at Lina’s Bridal in Valparaiso as well as making clothing for family and friends. She was a member of Hopewell Mennonite Church and enjoyed reading, painting, walking, swimming aerobics at the YMCA, and collecting Amber Glass. Cooking for family and friends was also an enjoyment for Marilyn and she was known for her lasagna, Texas Sheet Cake, fake bread, and having popcorn ready as the grandkids came through her door. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, playing games, particularly Rummikub and Hand and Foot, and attending all the their events as she was able.
On October 2, 1948, Marilyn married Andrew “Andy” Anderson who preceded her in death in 2016. She is survived by her children, Richard Anderson, LeAnn (Keith) Dommer, Tom (Donna) Anderson, and Linda Anderson; 8 grandchildren, Jason (Kelly) Anderson, Amanda (Rob) Moery, Melissa (Jeff) Kreiger, Koren (Dan) Oldham, Kristina Hallberg, Devin (Amber) Sibo, Ryan and Travis (Kelsey Doll) Anderson; 15 great grandchildren, Madelyn Annelise and Braden Anderson, Noah, Lillian, and Lucas Moery, Wyatt, Jacob, and Eloise Kreiger, Adylinne, Mason, and Allysun Oldham, Bruce and Brodie Hallberg, and Davin and Dayne Sibo; brother, Larry Bechler; and sister-in-law, Tillie Shank. She was also preceded in death by her infant daughter, Lynne Marie; great granddaughter, Kayla Lynn Sibo; and siblings, Barbara Ann Hardel and Johnnie Bechler.
Private Family Service was held at Hopewell Mennonite Church with burial at Hopewell Mennonite Cemetery, Kouts. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to: Pines Village of Valparaiso for the Butterfly Garden or Hopewell Mennonite Church in Kouts.
GUESTBOOK
Sending my prayers and my sympathy to Marilyn’s family during this time of loss. -Donna Mitzner
